What symptoms may occur with small nodules in the lungs?

Pulmonary small nodules refer to lung nodules with a diameter less than 3 centimeters, typically detected during a CT scan of the lungs. These nodules can be either benign or malignant. In general, symptoms associated with pulmonary small nodules depend on the nature and size of the nodule. If the nodule is benign, there may be no symptoms at all, or only mild shortness of breath. If the nodule is malignant, symptoms may include cough, sputum production, chest pain, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and hemoptysis (coughing up blood). Additionally, if the nodule compresses surrounding tissues or organs, related symptoms such as hoarseness or difficulty swallowing may also occur.